Architecture Colleges

About the Architecture Major

Think four walls and a roof is all there is to architecture? Frank Lloyd Wright would be would very disappointed to hear that, so think again! Architecture students learn the multifaceted process of the planning, design, and construction of buildings. An architect was responsible for any physical structure where you live, work, play, socialize, or conduct business. Houses, schools, offices, theaters, arenas, hospitals, and shopping centers, are just a few of many examples of architecture in our world.

Flex your technical, analytical, and artistic skills in a demanding curriculum that emphasizes design, math, technology, science, and project management. Students will learn about site planning, construction, and building codes; develop an understanding of space, composition, and color theory; participate in intensive design studios and complete various design projects; and delve into physical sciences. You will spend a lot of time sketching, writing, drawing, and making models. Along with principles of architectural design and planning, students also learn about history of architecture and how design processes have changed over time. The emerging issue of sustainability has increased an architect's role in minimizing the negative environmental impact of buildings.

Graduates will be prepared to visualize and conceptualize solutions that combine artistic inspiration and practical design, while keeping in mind that all buildings must be functional, safe, and economical. Reducing costs, decreasing energy needs, and increasing future resale value are a few of an architect's main concerns to meet a client's needs. Regardless of aesthetics, all aspects of a building's design must take into account plumbing, electric, and fire regulations, so architecture students must develop a solid knowledge of building codes, construction, planning, and zoning laws. An architect's daily interactions include consultations with clients and collaboration with other architects, engineers, and construction managers.

Upon graduation, students will be prepared for graduate programs in architecture and allied fields, such as landscape architecture, interior design, urban design, historic preservation, and art and architectural history.

To become a licensed architect, students must complete an additional fifth year of study in a Bachelor of Architecture program or a two-year Master of Architecture program. Aspiring architects must also complete specialized training outside the classroom. After graduation, students are expected to work as an intern before taking the Architect Registration Exam (ARE), administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). NCARB requires that interns complete 5,600 hours to satisfy the Intern Development Program requirement. Most graduates complete this requirement by working as interns at architectural firms where they may assist in the design of a project, help prepare architectural documents and drawings, build models, or prepare construction drawings on CADD.